Financial experts are advising young professionals to adopt healthier boundaries as rising economic pressures make it increasingly difficult to meet constant financial demands from parents and relatives.
According to financial coach Jane Ndichu, many earners are struggling under what is commonly referred to as “black tax”—a situation where working adults feel obligated to support extended family members regardless of their own financial limitations. She warns that this pattern often leaves individuals unable to save, invest, or build long-term security.
Ndichu notes that while cultural expectations encourage children to assist their families, saying “yes” to every request can create emotional strain and long-term dependency. She explains that many people give out of guilt or fear of disappointing loved ones, even when the assistance is beyond their means.
She recommends that individuals begin by clearly defining what they can afford and communicating those limits honestly. “Support becomes harmful when it threatens your financial stability,” she said. Setting a small, manageable monthly budget for family assistance can help prevent overspending. Once that budget is exhausted, she says it is reasonable to decline further requests.
Ndichu also urges families to shift from continuous financial handouts to more sustainable alternatives, such as teaching budgeting skills, encouraging savings habits, or offering one-time support that helps relatives build independence.
She emphasizes that refusing unaffordable requests should not be mistaken for selfishness. Instead, she says it is a responsible step that protects both the giver and the recipient, allowing everyone involved to work toward long-term financial well-being.
